Kylian Mbappé, the French soccer sensation who dazzles for Real Madrid, found himself at the centre of a controversy after a video surfaced in which he made a remark about Mao Zedong, the founding leader of the People’s Republic of China. The comment was widely perceived as offensive, prompting a swift backlash on Chinese social media.
On 27 October 2026, three Chinese firms – Mangniu, Shanghai Milk Group, and Istera – announced they were ending their sponsorship agreements with Mbappé. In parallel, La Liga suspended broadcasts and advertising linked to the player, aiming to avoid further friction with Chinese partners.
🚨 𝗡𝗘𝗪: The controversy surrounding Kylian Mbappé in China is now affecting the stock market! Swiss sportswear brand ON, which recently signed Mbappé as an ambassador following his departure from Nike, saw its shares DROP by 3.5% in pre-market trading on Wall Street on Tuesday. Investors are concerned about the potential impact of the controversy on the brand’s reputation in China. The Asia-Pacific region accounts for MORE THAN 20% of ON’s global sales. The company has over 80 stores in China and aims to reach 100 by the end of the year. — BFM
On 27 October 2026 Mbappé issued a public apology, stating: “My comment was ill‑judged, and I now understand that it hurt many people in China and in Chinese communities around the world. I apologise to everyone my words have upset. This was absolutely not my intention. I have deep respect for the Chinese people and their history, and I am sincerely sorry.” While the apology was accepted by some, criticism continued online, with calls for a broader commercial boycott.
The episode underscores how a single remark can have far‑reaching commercial and political repercussions for international athletes.
The episode underscores how a single remark can have far‑reaching commercial and political repercussions for international athletes. Sponsors and leagues are increasingly attentive to cultural nuances, especially when dealing with markets that hold historical figures in high regard.
#PalkiSharmaShow: French football star Kylian Mbappé is facing backlash in China after reportedly joking about former Chinese leader Mao Zedong during a talk show appearance. @palkisu brings you the headlines. https://t.co/i2rFXA3r8t
Mbappé’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for public figures operating on a global stage. It highlights the need for careful communication, an awareness of local sensitivities, and the potential cost of missteps in an interconnected world.
As Mbappé works to rebuild his reputation, the incident will likely remain a reference point for how athletes navigate the delicate balance between personal expression and the expectations of a worldwide audience.
BREAKING : 🇨🇳 China suspends broadcasts of Spain's La Liga football league following remarks by Kylian Mbappe.